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Alaina Getzenberg
Sean McDermott’s era as the head coach of the Buffalo Bills concluded on Monday, marked by a historic playoff streak and a significant cultural shift within the organization.
During his nine-year stint, McDermott recorded the second-most wins (98-50) of any franchise since 2017. He guided Buffalo to the playoffs in eight out of those nine seasons, making it to the AFC Championship Game twice but failing to reach the Super Bowl.
To advance with MVP quarterback Josh Allen and secure the franchise’s elusive first Super Bowl victory, the Bills must now appoint a new coach, a task that will be handled by general manager Brandon Beane. On Monday, Bills owner Terry Pegula confirmed that Beane has been retained and elevated to president of football operations, expanding his responsibilities to include overseeing the coaching search.
So how did the Bills arrive at this point — parting ways with McDermott just two days after their 33-30 divisional round defeat to the Denver Broncos — and what implications does it have?
Bills reporter Alaina Getzenberg, senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler, and NFL analyst Ben Solak are here to address the pressing questions following Monday’s announcement that the Bills are pivoting to a new direction.
Why was Sean McDermott let go? Was the Denver loss a significant factor?
He fell short of completing the mission. In a results-driven business, McDermott found considerable success, winning 10 or more games over seven consecutive seasons, marking the longest active streak in the NFL and one of only six teams with a streak that extensive in the Super Bowl era.
but, the decision to fire him hinges on what McDermott didn’t achieve, and more crucially, on Pegula’s clear choice to embrace Beane’s vision for the franchise moving forward. The collaboration between Beane and McDermott failed to produce the combined success necessary to lead the team to its first Super Bowl appearance. Instead, the Bills remain the only team from that group without multiple Super Bowl appearances during that timeframe, with their last three playoff defeats occurring by three points.
Letting McDermott go wasn’t merely a reaction to one game or one season. He became an emblem of Western New York, passionate about the area. He cultivated a culture that attracted numerous players, many of whom returned to Buffalo to play for him, as demonstrated by the shock and dismay expressed by various players upon his dismissal.
Pegula made it clear in his statement that he believed the organizational structure needed improvement and that entrusting the entirety of football operations to one person — Beane — was a strategic move aimed at achieving that elusive Super Bowl title. — Getzenberg
Is this now the most appealing coaching position available? Should John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski have hesitated before taking their current roles?
While the Bills job is undeniably attractive, particularly due to the MVP factor, I’m not entirely convinced it surpasses other opportunities. The incoming head coach will have sky-high expectations, as the previous coach led the team to the playoffs seven consecutive times, including six divisional round appearances. There is no plan for a teardown or a transition period in Buffalo; the next coach must deliver immediate results and succeed in January.
That said, I do believe both Harbaugh and Stefanski would have carefully considered the Bills position — especially Stefanski, who has yet to coach a star quarterback like Allen. That dynamic could yield considerable offensive success. I suspect the Bills job will be filled quickly due to Allen’s appeal, though it feels somewhat like a trap to me. — Solak
Who are the potential candidates for Buffalo?
This is a coveted position that will attract a range of strong candidates. While it’s not without its imperfections — the roster has some gaps, and the expectations will be high — the opportunity to coach Allen and maximize his talent will be incredibly enticing. Several former Buffalo offensive coordinators, including in-house candidate Joe Brady and ex-Giants head coach Brian Daboll, may be in contention. Daboll, in particular, has connections to Western New York and an established rapport with Allen.
also, this could be an opportunity for the Bills to reshape their identity with a younger coach. Intriguing options on the board include Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula, Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, and Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
A trio of young offensive coaches — Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, Rams pass-game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, and Broncos pass-game coordinator Davis Webb — are also worth consideration. — Fowler
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Rex Ryan wants the Bills to hire Bill Belichick
Dan Orlovsky and Rex Ryan discuss their top choices for Sean McDermott’s replacement in Buffalo.
Why was GM Brandon Beane kept on, and is he under pressure for next season?
Buffalo’s decision to maintain confidence in Beane indicates not only a new level of responsibility for him but also Pegula’s trust in his strategic vision for the organization. Beane’s promotion entails increased scrutiny; should the team falter again, he will be in the spotlight as he now holds full control.
This represents a change from previous arrangements where McDermott reported directly to Pegula. Beane, 49, now has complete authority over football operations, which allows him to collaborate closely with the new coach for any necessary adjustments.
Beane has faced substantial criticism regarding the quality of roster support around Allen, with numerous recent first and second-round draft selections and free agency signings not living up to expectations.
Previously reporting directly to Pegula, Beane has built a solid trust and rapport with the owner, leading to Pegula’s confidence in him guiding the franchise moving forward. — Getzenberg
What significant offseason decisions are on Buffalo’s horizon?
Wide receiver stands out as a primary concern. The position group carries significant unanswered questions, particularly with Keon Coleman, the 33rd overall pick, dropping down the depth chart in his sophomore season and free-agent signings like Joshua Palmer and Curtis Samuel not meeting expectations. Addressing this situation will be one of Beane’s top priorities.
Additional positions are also in flux due to free agency, especially along the lines. Starting center Connor McGovern and left guard David Edwards are set to hit free agency, which would be a major blow to the offensive line. The pass rush also requires attention, as Joey Bosa and AJ Epenesa are free agents, and securing a reliable solution at that position has been a persistent challenge for the team.
The real test will be revitalizing the roster under a new head coach who can immediately make the team competitive with a 30-year-old Allen at quarterback. — Getzenberg
Where might McDermott find a new position, and is he now the frontrunner for available head coaching roles?
McDermott’s experience will lead several organizations to reassess their hiring strategies. Tennessee is one place that springs to mind.
The Titans are considering finalists Matt Nagy, Robert Saleh, and Jeff Hafley. Should they bring McDermott into the conversation? It’s certainly worth examining. He brings instant credibility. despite Tennessee and Miami (with Hafley) proceed with their current plans, McDermott has five teams to potentially pursue — the Raiders, Browns, Steelers, Ravens, and Cardinals.
The first two may not be the best fits at this juncture, as both are in rebuild mode and looking to make an unconventional hire. McDermott’s coaching methods would mesh well in the AFC North. Baltimore, which isn’t shying away from considering experienced candidates, seems to be a more suitable opportunity than Pittsburgh. Arizona is also in a transitional phase but isn’t particularly appealing at the moment.
So, McDermott definitely ranks as one of the most sought-after candidates, but much will depend on the direction and preferences of each team. — Fowler
